Vaginal examination — What it is and what to expect
Vaginal examination requires sensitivity Parting her legs to have a vaginal examination is one of the most challenging moments for a woman, especially if it is happening to her for the first time. Considering that it requires you to put aside your privacy for a while and to allow somebody else to ‘intrude,’ a vaginal…
Read MoreUterine Rupture – What it is and why it happens
Uterine rupture is a tear in the wall of the uterus, most often at the site of a previous caeserean section (C-section). In a complete rupture the tear goes through all layers of the uterine wall. The consequences of uterine rupture can be dire for mother and child. Fortunately, these ruptures are relatively rare for…
Read MoreDangers of prolonged labour
Prolonged labour suggests that labour has failed to progress normally, and is causing difficulties for the mother and child. Labour is said to have prolonged if it does not complete within 18 hours for first time mothers and 12 hours for mothers who have had a prior delivery. What could cause prolonged labour? Inadequate intensity…
Read MoreRuptured UTERUS
A real life account as witnessed by a maternity nurse Her blood pressure was low and her skin pale because of losing a lot of blood. The baby was getting distressed because its oxygen supply was interrupted. It was an extremely dangerous situation for both mother and child. Alice (real name withheld) was rushed to…
Read MoreChanges in your weight during pregnancy
In today’s society, most people (especially women) view wait gain with trepidation. The pregnancy period has a mandatory and compulsory weight gain requirement, for healthy foetal growth and development as well as energy source for mums
Read MoreWas Adam, then, Eve’s “Midwife?”
To be or not to be present. Should fathers be present at birth of their children? Do they have a role – other than watching? There are varying opinions on the presence of a father in the labour ward during child birth. Should he or should he not witness it? Many mums and dads have no…
Read MoreRaped — what next?
Finding that ray of hope in a time of crisis Once a rape victim is faced with the full reality of what has happened, everything will seem hostile and hopeless. However, there is a ray of hope despite the ordeal. In this article, we suggest some immediate steps that rape victims should take to restore their…
Read MoreWhat pregnant women want…in their own words
Pregnant women now tell it all…from their hearts! Many of us are sensitive to scents. One day everything is fine and a few days or weeks after confirming you are pregnant, you suddenly cannot stand the smell of things. I remember clearing all the soap from our house. My husband looks at me like ‘we…
Read MoreHow to handle breast cancer in pregnancy
Dr. Shiphrah Kuria explains Cancer during pregnancy is uncommon, but when it does occur it presents several unique challenges. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women and once in a while it may be diagnosed during pregnancy. Pregnancy however does not have any dramatic influences on the development of breast cancer; the critical issue…
Read MoreSafe sex during pregnancy — Know when to stop!
Safe sex during pregnancy is generally recommended, but you should know when to stop! Contrary to common belief, you can have safe sex during pregnancy whenever you choose to. Yes, throughout pregnancy. Safe sex during pregnancy cannot harm you or your baby unless there are other factors involved. There are three useful tips on this matter:…
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